LATHROP – The Big Apple is expected to be above freezing when the Super Bowl kicks off on Sunday, and the South County will be recovering from a brief storm that brought the first rain in nearly two months.

The 100-acre Mistlin Sports Park probably offers the most to more people than the 19 other play areas in the Ripon community that range in size from a quarter of an acre to the near 28-acre Mavis Stouffer Park along the Stanislaus River.

Since taking over as quarterback for the San Francisco 49ers Colin Kaepernick has come to be an icon in his hometown of Turlock. More than an inspirational sports figure, he has also been a boost to the local economy. From signature dishes, Kaep-inspired treats and even clothing, Turlock has become the epicenter of Kaepernick mania.

Anthony Martins' blood is red, but if you look closely you will probably find some gold too. Having attended more than 40 games, Anthony's diehard passion for the San Francisco 49ers long precedes the team's national attention for success in recent years.